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Council approves long-term license for Lake County Rowing Association after split vote over city modification rights
Summary
Council approved a long-term license for the Lake County Rowing Association at the Claremont Boathouse by a 3-2 vote after heated debate about a clause giving the city rights to make structural changes.
The City of Clermont City Council approved a long-term license agreement with the Lake County Rowing Association (LCRA) for the Claremont Boathouse on April 8, 2025 after a contentious discussion about the city’s retained rights to use, inspect or make improvements to the property.
Parks and Recreation Director Brian Foreman presented the proposed license: $1,000 per month starting Aug. 1 with a 3% annual increase, automatic three‑year renewals and a city liaison to the rowing association. Foreman said the agreement would allow the club to continue youth and adult rowing programs in the community.
During debate, councilmembers and the rowing-club representative disagreed over a clause (identified in the draft as section 13) that would permit the city to undertake improvements or uses that could affect the licensee’s exclusive use. Supporters of including the clause argued it preserved the city’s ownership rights and future flexibility; opponents said it effectively undermined the association’s exclusive possession and could discourage long-term investment by the club. Council proposed compromises including adding a 90‑day notice provision for structural changes; staff and the city attorney explained the license already contained termination-for-convenience language and options for notice.
After extended discussion and failed attempts to add an amendment on the floor, the motion to approve the license passed 3-2. The mayor and two councilmembers voted in favor; two councilmembers opposed. Council instructed Parks staff and the city attorney to finalize the license text consistent with the motion and return the final executed document to council.
Ending The council’s divided vote resolves the immediate operating status of the boathouse but requires a follow-up to finalize contract language. Parks staff will return a version that incorporates council direction on notice and city access provisions.
